Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a comforting and hearty twist on traditional spaghetti. This recipe combines the richness of cream cheese with savory ground beef and tangy pasta sauce, all baked together to create a cheesy, bubbly dish.

Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole-style spaghetti is easy to prepare and full of flavor, making it a go-to meal when you want something satisfying and delicious.

How to make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef

16 ounces spaghetti pasta

28 ounces pasta sauce

8 ounces cream cheese

1 pinch garlic salt

1 clove of garlic, minced

1 tsp Italian seasoning

½ cup grated parmesan cheese

½ cup mozzarella cheese shredded

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350*

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and boil the noodles according to package directions.

In a skillet, brown the ground beef.

Drain all the fat from the meat

Add the spaghetti sauce and stir to combine.

Drain the spaghetti and place it in a large bowl

Add cream cheese, garlic salt, minced garlic, Italian seasoning

Stir until the spaghetti is coated and the cream cheese is melted

Spread a small portion of the meat sauce in the bottom of a casserole dish

Place the spaghetti noodles on the top of that sauce

Spoon the remainder of the meat sauce over the top

Sprinkle the grated parmesan on top of the meat sauce

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top

Bake in a preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly on the top.

Sprinkle more Parmesan on the top and serve.

Enjoy!

Notes:

Cream Cheese: The cream cheese adds a creamy, velvety texture to the spaghetti, making it richer than traditional spaghetti dishes. Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to ensure it blends smoothly with the pasta.

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Be sure to drain the fat to avoid a greasy dish.

Layering: Spreading a small portion of meat sauce at the bottom of the casserole dish prevents the spaghetti from sticking and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Cheese Topping: The combination of parmesan and mozzarella creates a deliciously golden, bubbly topping. For an extra cheesy finish, feel free to add more cheese on top before serving.

Customizable: This recipe is versatile—add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also switch up the cheese or use a different pasta shape if preferred.

Make-Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and baked when ready, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Serving: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Leftovers can be reheated easily and taste just as delicious the next day.

Nutrition Information:

SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can definitely use other types of ground meat like turkey, chicken, or pork instead of ground beef.

Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary slightly based on the meat you choose.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely, while the recipe calls for spaghetti, you can use other types of pasta such as penne, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta.

Cooking times might vary, so adjust accordingly and based on your preference.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely, adding vegetables is a great way to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the dish. You can include sautéed spinach, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even grated carrots.

Just make sure to cook or sauté the vegetables before adding them to the pasta.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and bake it when you’re ready.

You might need to increase the baking time slightly since the dish will be cold from the refrigerator.

What can I serve with this baked spaghetti?

This dish can be quite hearty on its own, but you can complement it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the baked spaghetti.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the lean ground beef if you prefer a lighter meat option.

The flavor might vary slightly, but it’s a great way to personalize the dish to your taste.

Can I use a different type of cheese for topping?

Certainly! While the recipe calls for Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, you can get creative with the cheese blend.

You might consider using provolone, cheddar, or a combination of your favorite cheeses to achieve your desired flavor.

Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this dish by omitting the ground meat and using plant-based alternatives like meatless crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor.